Labour MP Predicts Starmer May Resign Before May Elections

Growing speculation surrounds the future of Keir Starmer as Labour Party leader, with John McDonnell, a member of Parliament, suggesting that Starmer might choose to resign before facing a potential coup. This prediction comes as Labour’s standing in the polls continues to deteriorate, with Starmer’s approval ratings dropping to historic lows.

During a visit to Yash Raj Films in Mumbai, India, on October 8, 2025, Starmer’s leadership has come under scrutiny, particularly with the upcoming local elections in May expected to be a critical moment for the party. Observers anticipate significant losses for Labour, which could affect control over councils in England, as well as devolved governments in Wales and Scotland.

McDonnell pointed out that several prominent figures, including Wes Streeting, former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Manchester, and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, are potential candidates to succeed Starmer. Yet, McDonnell believes it is more likely that Starmer would resign voluntarily rather than wait to be ousted by party members.

He addressed the situation in a recent interview, stating, “I’m like anybody else really, we will see what happens over the next six months, we will see what happens in the May elections.” McDonnell emphasized that he does not foresee a coup but acknowledged the pressure Starmer faces.

Reflecting on their time together in the shadow cabinet, McDonnell described Starmer as a “serious politician” who would make a responsible decision regarding his leadership if the May elections yield poor results. He noted, “If he thinks after the May elections – if they are as disastrous as some people think… he’ll take the judgement himself if he is the right person for the job.”

Starmer has faced challenges in the past, having previously considered resigning during the party’s struggles while in opposition. He admitted to Sky News last year that the Labour Party’s performance in the 2021 local elections and a by-election loss represented a “low point.” Starmer reflected, “I did consider quitting because I didn’t feel that I should be bigger than the party and that if I couldn’t bring about the change, perhaps there should be a change.”

Despite these difficulties, McDonnell remains optimistic about the Labour Party’s potential for recovery. He highlighted the need for the government to avoid “repeating the same mistakes of the past” and to focus on addressing pressing issues such as the ongoing cost of living crisis. “If they demonstrated a steadiness in government and addressed the real issues that people are facing… I think there’s a prospect we could turn things around,” he said.

As the May elections approach, the pressure on Starmer intensifies, with many looking to see if he will heed the warnings and make a decision about his leadership before facing the voters.